Unit 6: Practical Skills in Physics II
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6.3 - Planning
6.3.1Apparatus details
Identify the most appropriate apparatus and give relevant details, including instrument range and resolution or apparatus dimensions.
6.3.2Instrument calibration
Discuss calibration of instruments, including whether an instrument reads zero before measurements are made.
6.3.3Measuring variables
Describe how to measure relevant variables using the most appropriate instruments and techniques.
6.3.4Controlling variables
Identify and state how to control all other relevant variables to make an experiment a fair test.
6.3.5Repeat readings
Discuss whether repeat readings are appropriate.
6.3.6Health and safety
Identify health and safety issues and explain how they may be managed.
6.3.7Use of collected data
Explain how the collected data will be used.
6.4 - Implementation and Measurements
6.4.1Improving experimental method
Explain how an experiment could have been improved, including using additional apparatus to reduce errors.
6.4.2Number of readings
Evaluate the number of readings taken.
6.4.3Range of measurements
Evaluate the range of measurements taken.
6.4.4Significant figures in results
Evaluate significant figures and identify or correct inappropriate figures in a results table.
6.4.5Incorrect units
Identify and correct units that are incorrect.
6.4.6Inconsistent readings
Identify and check a reading inconsistent with other readings, such as a point away from the graph trend.
6.5 - Analysis
6.5.1Calculations with significant figures
Perform calculations using the correct number of significant figures.
6.5.2Graph plotting with scale and units
Plot results on a graph using an appropriate scale and units, including logarithmic graphs.
6.5.3Correct units
Use correct units throughout data analysis.
6.5.4Trend or pattern
Interpret the trend or pattern obtained.
6.5.5Relationship or constant from a graph
Determine a relationship between two variables or a constant from a graph, including finding a gradient with a large triangle.
6.5.6Precision, accuracy and sensitivity
Use the terms precision, accuracy and sensitivity appropriately.
6.5.7Modifications to reduce errors
Suggest realistic modifications to reduce errors.
6.5.8Modifications to improve experiments
Suggest realistic modifications to improve an experiment.
6.5.9Qualitative and quantitative uncertainties
Evaluate uncertainties qualitatively and quantitatively.
6.5.10Compound percentage uncertainties
Combine percentage uncertainties correctly.
6.5.11Percentage uncertainty
Determine percentage uncertainty for a single reading using half the instrument resolution and for repeated readings using half the range.